ATHENS, Ohio (Oct. 23, 2006) -- Ohio University will honor its most senior classified employees at the 37th Annual Service Awards Program from noon to 2 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 27, in the Old Nelson Banquet Hall. Classified Senate hosts the ceremony each year.

The more than 200 bargaining and non-bargaining classified employees recognized have recently reached 10,15, 20, 25, 30, 35 or 40 years of service at the university.

Classified employees receive a gift for every five years of service, which includes everything from a certificate for employees with five years experience to a framed Tad Gallaugher art piece of their choice or an engraved wooden mantle clock for 40 years of service.

Melba Evans, who is the only classified employee celebrating her 40th year at Ohio University, has worked in the Department of Athletics her entire career. She began her career in the ticket office and also handled most of the Olympic (non-revenue) sports as well as basketball. She began working in the football office in the early ‘70s and has remained there as an administrative associate.

“I like my job because it gives me the feeling that I’ve done my best,” Evans said. “I feel like I am appreciated at Ohio University.”